Mars confirms major 600 jobs boost with Chicago headquarters expansion

A significant investment is being made by Mars, as expansion to its global headquarters in Chicago, US, will see the creation of 600 new jobs in the region’s candy capital, reports Neill Barston.

The move was confirmed by the company in a joint announcement with Ilinois governor JB Pritzker, as part of a strategic enhancement of its existing facilities within the State.

According to the company, its Chicago site will see Mars Snacking’s Accelerator Division and international functions join with its global headquarters in the ‘Windy City.’

Mars Wrigley HQ in Chicago, US. Pic: Shutterstock

As the business noted, the decision underscores its commitment to the region, with the location continuing to serve as a central hub to connect Mars Snacking teams, accelerate innovation and support long-term business growth.

The company has long-supported the key Sweets and Snacks Expo event that had been held for many years in the city’s McCormick Place, which has since transferred to be staged between Indianapolis, and this year being staged this May in Las Vegas. 

“Illinois continues to prove that it’s the right place for companies that want to grow and compete globally,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Mars Snacking’s decision to expand its footprint in Chicago reflects the strength of our state’s workforce, infrastructure and business environment. We’re proud that a company with such an iconic portfolio is building on its history here, creating opportunity for Illinois families and strengthening our economy.”

“Chicago has long been a hub for our business, and now it is our official home for our North America region and our Accelerator Division – firmly establishing our legacy and our future together,” said Andrew Clarke, Global President, Mars Snacking.

“The Chicagoland area offers the best of all worlds for Mars Snacking – a vibrant urban environment, strong communities and access to world-class talent. We are proud to deepen our roots here, advance the Mars Snacking business, and continue our long-standing commitment to community engagement and responsible business.”

In addition, the company will also open a new North America regional office hub in Chicago’s Fulton Market district for Mars Snacking, with capacity for more than 1,000 Associates.

The accelerator division will also establish a new global office hub in downtown Chicago, taking over the former Kellanova global and North America headquarters in a recently-concluded deal that takes the company further into the overall snacking and cereal market.

As the business noted, together, these moves reinforce Mars Snacking’s long-standing commitment to the Chicago region, where the company supports more than 4,000 Mars Snacking jobs, produces more than 20 major brands and anchors the company’s Global Innovation Centre, which is considered as being a groundbreaking research and development hub.

Kristin Richards, Director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), added: “Mars Snacking’s decision to invest and expand their operations in Illinois is a testament to all our state has to offer. “Through programs like the EDGE tax incentive Illinois remains the best place to live, work, and do business – increasing economic opportunity and creating good-paying careers that support long-term economic growth.”